Antica Terra & Sine Qua Non For Lunch

Yesterday we were invited to A & M for lunch. Luckily the weather permitted us to barbecue outside and these stunning wines were generously poured.

2011 Ceras Pinot Noir, Antica Terra
This Oregon Pinot combines powers and grace with lovely aromas of ripe raspberries, red currants, Asian spices, a hint of tobacco and bay leaves. Deep and fine. This is good!
The taste is big and creamy but with a fine acidity. There are gorgeous notes of raspberry truffles, forest floor, red currant jam and some tobacco leaves. A long, balanced finish with a dry ending. A very fine warmth. Drinking great, sitting in the shade waiting for the barbecue to hit the right temperature.
93p   (tasted 2014/07)

2011 Dark Blossom Syrah, Sine Qua Non
With some thick slices of entrecote this beauty shined. A very deep, concentrated, tight nose with notes of sweet/sour cherry compote, sweet violets, freshly peppered meat, dark chocolate and old balsamic vinegar. Really, really focused and fine.
The taste is big, broad and potent, yet refined and balanced with notes of sweet black cherries, grilled meat, dried figs, dark chocolate and lots of fresh violet pastilles. The finish goes on for minutes and ends dry and fine. This is a great wine in the making, albeit young now.
95p   (tasted 2014/07)